Phuket: "Suchart" challenges authorities to watch out for a mid-July invasion to reclaim Phuket.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, has announced plans to reclaim Phuket's beaches, urging authorities to prepare for a surprise in mid-July. He criticized the mafia for their actions, such as firing guns and collecting entrance fees, labeling them as mere street thugs. Mr. Suchart vowed to conduct investigations without favoritism, ensuring that public land is returned to the community and preventing unauthorized use.
Mr. Suchart addressed concerns raised on a Facebook page regarding alleged encroachment on over 50 rai of forest land near Cherng Talay Municipality by a deputy governor's team. He stated that a recent meeting of the Phuket Model Committee outlined a timeline for inspecting various beaches, as initiated by the Prime Minister. While some cases, like Nui Beach, have been resolved by the courts, others require a 45-day appeal period before legal actions are taken. The Minister emphasized a new approach involving a combined task force from forestry, national parks, and other special units to reclaim land and protect it from misuse by groups like the mafia.
When questioned about the Facebook page's allegations of internal conflicts among deputy governors, Mr. Suchart maintained that he wasn't assigning blame but stressed that he would not show leniency if any wrongdoing was found. He highlighted the Prime Minister's strict instructions to avoid favoritism, even towards civil servants or members of his own ministry. As part of his efforts, he is compiling land title figures to submit to the Director-General of the Land Department to revoke illegally issued titles. Mr. Suchart cited examples of demolished hotels in Sirinat National Park, emphasizing his commitment to following the law despite personal regrets over demolitions.
Regarding previous investigations by park officials and potential involvement by a deputy governor, Mr. Suchart refrained from further comments but acknowledged cooperation challenges. He noted the pressure revealed during a recent officials' meeting and mentioned that personnel concerned for their safety could be transferred, with new personnel brought in. A special task force from three departments will be deployed to protect public beaches, with a detailed overview expected by mid-July. Mr. Suchart also pointed to upcoming evictions and demolitions of luxury resorts and hotels in national park areas, anticipated to occur in July.